General Letter of Recommendation Template

A general letter of recommendation serves as a valuable tool in providing a positive assessment of an individual’s abilities, character, and potential to succeed in a particular role. Whether it is for a job application or an academic program, this letter offers insights beyond what is seen on a resume or application, thereby bolstering the candidate’s candidacy and giving the recipient a more complete picture of the applicant.

Essentially, it acts as a testimonial from someone who knows the individual well and can vouch for their qualifications.

What is a General Letter of Recommendation?

A general letter of recommendation is a document that is usually written by someone who has a close professional or personal relationship with the individual being recommended. It highlights the person’s strengths, skills, and accomplishments, providing a comprehensive view of their qualifications.

This letter is typically required by employers, academic institutions, or scholarship committees to gain a deeper understanding of an applicant’s capabilities and potential.

Sample of General Letter of Recommendation Template

Why is a General Letter of Recommendation Important?

A general letter of recommendation is important for several reasons:

  • 1. Provides additional insights: A letter of recommendation offers insights into an individual’s abilities, character, and potential, which may not be evident from their resume or application. It provides a holistic view of the candidate, giving the recipient a more complete picture.
  • 2. Validate qualifications: By vouching for the applicant’s qualifications, a letter of recommendation acts as a validation of their skills and accomplishments. It adds credibility to their claims and strengthens their candidacy.
  • 3. Demonstrates personal connection: A letter of recommendation from someone who knows the individual well demonstrates a personal connection and attests to their character. It shows that the recommender has a deep understanding of the person’s abilities and can speak confidently about their potential.
  • 4. Sets the applicant apart: In a competitive job market or academic program, a well-written letter of recommendation can set the applicant apart from other candidates. It provides an additional layer of information that can make a significant impact on the decision-making process.
  • 5. Increases chances of success: A strong letter of recommendation can greatly increase the applicant’s chances of success. It showcases their strengths and qualifications in a way that resonates with the recipient, making them more likely to be chosen for the role or program.

How to Write a General Letter of Recommendation

When writing a general letter of recommendation, it is important to keep the following tips in mind:

  • 1. Start with a formal salutation: Begin the letter with a formal salutation, addressing the recipient by their proper title and name.
  • 2. Introduce yourself: Provide a brief introduction of yourself and your relationship with the individual being recommended. Mention how long you have known them and in what capacity.
  • 3. Highlight the person’s strengths: Focus on the person’s strengths, skills, and accomplishments. Provide specific examples and anecdotes that showcase their abilities and potential.
  • 4. Be specific and detailed: Avoid general statements and vague praises. Instead, be specific and provide detailed information about the person’s achievements and qualifications.
  • 5. Use a formal tone: Maintain a formal tone throughout the letter. Avoid using informal language or slang.
  • 6. Include contact information: Provide your contact information at the end of the letter, in case the recipient has any further questions or requires additional information.
  • 7. Proofread and edit: Before sending the letter, make sure to proofread and edit it for any grammatical or spelling errors. A well-written and error-free letter reflects positively on both the applicant and the recommender.

Example of a General Letter of Recommendation

Here is an example of a general letter of recommendation:

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to provide my strongest recommendation for [Applicant’s Name]. I have had the pleasure of knowing [Applicant’s Name] for the past [number of years], during which time I have witnessed their exceptional abilities and remarkable character.

[Applicant’s Name] is an incredibly talented individual with a unique combination of skills and qualities. Their intelligence, creativity, and dedication have always stood out to me. I have seen them take on challenging projects and surpass expectations with their innovative solutions and unwavering commitment.

One aspect of [Applicant’s Name]’s character that particularly impresses me is their strong work ethic. They consistently demonstrate a high level of professionalism and accountability in all their endeavors. Their attention to detail and ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously is truly remarkable.

Furthermore, [Applicant’s Name] has an exceptional ability to communicate effectively and collaborate with others. They have a natural talent for building relationships and creating a positive work environment. Their leadership skills are exemplary, and they have a unique ability to motivate and inspire those around them.

I do not doubt that [Applicant’s Name] will excel in any role or academic program they choose to pursue. Their passion and drive, combined with their exceptional skills and qualifications, make them an ideal candidate for any opportunity that comes their way.

Please feel free to reach out to me if you require any further information or have any questions. I am more than happy to provide additional insights into [Applicant’s Name]’s qualifications and potential.

Thank you for considering my recommendation.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

general letter of recommendation template
general letter of recommendation template
Example of General Letter of Recommendation Template
Example of General Letter of Recommendation Template
General Letter of Recommendation Template Example
General Letter of Recommendation Template Example
General Letter of Recommendation Template Sample
General Letter of Recommendation Template Sample

Tips for Successful General Letters of Recommendation

Here are some additional tips to ensure the success of your general letter of recommendation:

  • 1. Request relevant information: Before writing the letter, ask the applicant for any specific information or details they would like you to include. This will help you tailor the letter to their needs and highlight their most relevant qualifications.
  • 2. Be honest: It is important to be honest in your assessment of the individual. Avoid exaggerating their abilities or qualifications. Instead, focus on providing an accurate and balanced representation.
  • 3. Seek permission: Always seek the applicant’s permission before writing a letter of recommendation. This ensures that they are comfortable with you providing a recommendation and allows them to provide any additional information they may want you to include.
  • 4. Follow the guidelines: If the recipient has provided any specific guidelines or requirements for the letter, make sure to follow them. This includes formatting, length, and content.
  • 5. Tailor the letter: Customize the letter to the specific role or program the applicant is applying to. Highlight the qualifications and skills that are most relevant to the opportunity.
  • 6. Use concrete examples: Whenever possible, provide concrete examples and specific achievements to support your statements. This adds credibility to your recommendation and gives the recipient a better understanding of the applicant’s capabilities.

Conclusion

A general letter of recommendation is a powerful tool that can greatly enhance an individual’s candidacy for a job or academic program. It provides valuable insights beyond what is seen on a resume or application, offering a more complete picture of the applicant.

By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, you can write a compelling letter of recommendation that highlights the person’s qualifications and potential.

General Letter of Recommendation TemplateDownload